Another Japan-India development? Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail (MAHSR) Project!
- India International Affairs Japan South Asia
Shreya Naskar- 0
- 4 minutes read
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) project, commonly known as the bullet train project, is a flagship infrastructure initiative in India aimed at revolutionizing rail travel. This ambitious project, estimated to cost ₹1.08 lakh crore, is expected to provide a fast and efficient mode of transportation between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Japan’s Soft Loan- Japan is financing 81% of the project cost through a highly concessional loan. The loan amounting to ₹88,000 crore is to be repaid over 50 years, with a 0.1% interest rate and an initial moratorium of 15 years.
- Original Completion Target: 2022
- Revised Completion Target: 2026-27
- Current Progress (as of January 2024):
- Overall: 40% completed
- Gujarat: 48.3% completed
- Maharashtra: 22.5% completed
Infrastructure Development
The project entails extensive infrastructure work, including:
- 100 km viaduct construction
- 250 piers built
- 6 river bridges
The project aims to create a skilled workforce and promote self-sufficiency in high-speed rail technology through:
Technology Transfer Will empower Indian engineers and workers with the necessary knowledge and skills to operate and maintain the bullet train system. Ensuring trains’ longevity and optimal performance with proper upkeep and technological assistance. Japan to train 1,000 Indian professionals, facilitating a smooth technology transfer and efficient project execution. Japan’s bullet train technology is globally recognized, with Taiwan being the only other country to have adopted it. Japan faced challenges in securing contracts in the U.S., leading to a renewed focus on India’s bullet train project.
E5 Series Bullet Train
- Higher operational speeds: Can travel up to 320 km/h while ensuring passenger comfort.
- Enhanced safety features: Equipped with earthquake detection and automatic braking mechanisms.
- Energy efficiency: Designed to reduce energy consumption while maintaining high speeds.
E10 Series Bullet Train
- Advanced aerodynamics: Offers even better stability and reduced noise levels.
- Greater seating capacity: Designed for higher passenger loads without compromising comfort.
- Next-generation safety measures: Improved anti-collision systems and enhanced signal responsiveness.